Alston Wilkes Society

The Alston Wilkes Society (AWS) is a multistate nonprofit organization that provides those most at risk with hope for a brighter future. AWS gives hope and rebuilds lives through rehabilitative and prevention services. The agency was founded in 1962 as a nonprofit organization led by a group of dedicated volunteers working under the direction of the Reverend Eli Alston Wilkes, Jr. Rev. Wilkes was a Methodist minister who labored as a tireless and devoted worker in helping those less fortunate. Today, the Alston Wilkes Society is providing direct services in North and South Carolina to not only offenders, but also the homeless, at-risk youth, veterans, and families in crisis.

Community Services Program: This program assists offenders, former offenders and other high risk populations in rebuilding their lives as productive, self-sufficient and law-abiding members of the community. From all walks of life, the people served have one thing in common - they are in crisis. Searching for a helping hand, a listening ear, encouragement, mentorship and coordination of services, clients and their families find hope for a brighter future through the Alston Wilkes Society. Adult Residential Services: The Federal Bureau of Prisons (FBOP) contracts with AWS to operate Residential Reentry Centers (RRC) for federal offenders. These facilities provide 24-hour supervision, employment assistance, counseling, life skills training (finances, parenting, etc.), family reintegration and other supportive services to facilitate a successful transition back into the community. All the facilities are accredited by the American Correctional Association. Youth Services Program AWS offers a continuum of care provided by a diverse and experienced staff that includes residential, academic, clinical, and home based community services. The following therapeutic programs and services are provided to children and adolescents in our care: Treatment Foster Care, a Clinical Day School, a Residential High Management Group Home, and Intensive Family Services. All youth programs are accredited by the Council on Accreditation. Veterans Services Program The Alston Wilkes Society Veterans Home (AWVH) is a valuable project that was a first in South Carolina. It has proven its worth in both our community and state. Through the Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) grant award, the continuous efforts of AWVH staff, collaboration with community partners, and support from the Veterans Administration; homeless Veterans in the Carolinas have a stable alternative to homelessness. Beyond providing the essentials of food, shelter, and supportive services, AWS is committed to reaffirming Veterans' self-worth giving them a chance to contribute to the community and society overall. This program consistently achieves an 85% success rate.